Random, positive and life-affirming musings on various topics and experiences

Category: The Sunday Supplement

Do we have guardian angels? Personal angels who go where we go, protect us, guide us … even speak with us? I don’t know for certain, but I wouldn’t be surprised.

There are many Biblical references to angels: “The angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him, and delivers them” (Psalm 34:7). “For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways” (Psalm 91:11). To name but two.

And there’s experiential evidence too. All of us probably have stories where a complete stranger seemed to appear at just the right time to prevent an accident, help us make the right decision, find something that was lost etc. etc.

I came across this lovely story recently, which I am happy to re-post. It certainly makes you think …

Why is slavery so prevalent today?

Migration: Millions are on the move from poorer countries to wealthier ones, and from poorer rural areas to cities, in search of work. Far from home, often with no money, and unable to speak the local language, migrants are especially vulnerable to being tricked by traffickers pretending to be legitimate labor recruiters.

Corruption: Although slavery is illegal everywhere, some governments are so corrupt that they turn a blind eye to slavery, allowing it to go unpunished, or even thrive. In many countries, those in slavery have no police protection from predatory traffickers.

Discrimination: Social inequality is increasing, based on factors such as gender, race, tribe or caste, creates widespread economic and social vulnerability.

What can I do?

Here are some links to specific pages of organizations that are active in this area, with a host of practical actions:

A view from the UK

A view from the US

I’m a great fan of Paul Simon, and have been for the past 40 years. One of his most recent songs is “Wristband”. It’s about a performer (I like to think in a jazz club) who “stepped outside the backstage door, to breathe some nicotine, and maybe check my mailbox,” when the stage door slams shuts behind him. He has no option but to go around the front of the jazz club to get back in … but he doesn’t have a wristband. So he can’t. As the bouncer tells him: “If you don’t have a wristband, my man, You don’t get through the door.”